The Gospel Starlets were active in New York City in the mid-‘60s and recorded a single LP and a handful of 45s for the HOB label. The group was clearly influenced by Darlene Love, the Ronettes and the Crystals and other groups produced by Phil Spector. It’s a shame we don’t know more about them – the Starlets had five excellent featured vocalists, each of whom sings lead on a different song from their lone album, Workers for the Lord.
Somewhere along the way they also recorded the old folk song, “Children Go Where I Send Thee.” It’s often called a spiritual -- but the song’s lyrics can be found in ancient English folk songs as well – and may be older still!
MUSIC: “Children, Go Where I Send Thee,” Gospel Starlets from the LP The Gospel Soul of Christmas, Side I, Track I (December 10, 2023)
I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.